HCA Healthcare/Mercer University School of Medicine/Grand Strand Medical Center Program

The Grand Strand Emergency Medicine Residency Program is an esteemed three-year training initiative located at Grand Strand Medical Center in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. As an ACGME accredited program, it offers twelve residency positions annually. The program is committed to training well-rounded emergency medicine physicians who can deliver outstanding medical care in a compassionate manner, preparing them for sustainable careers in the field.

Affiliated with the University of South Carolina and Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM), the program emphasizes an educational environment ripe with individualized learning opportunities. Faculty members come with substantial experience in emergency medicine, covering diverse areas including clinical toxicology, point-of-care ultrasound, and advanced EMS training. This ensures a comprehensive education tailored to meet the clinical and educational needs of residents, while also fostering an inclusive atmosphere respecting diverse cultures and values 1.

Program Overview

Grand Strand Medical Center is a 403-bed acute care facility boasting an Accredited Chest Pain Center, an Advanced Primary Stroke Center, a Children’s Center, and it is recognized as the busiest trauma center in South Carolina. The on-site state-of-the-art Simulation Center enhances the residents’ experience by providing a safe space for mastering essential skills through simulated practice 1.

With a strong curriculum structure, residents will engage in weekly Emergency Medicine Conferences, participate in simulation lab sessions, and attend a variety of educational presentations throughout their training. The program prioritizes a high level of procedural experience and research, with available support including a dedicated EM Research Director and Coordinator 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency curriculum consists of 13 four-week modules each academic year, which are thoughtfully designed to cover a range of essential topics in emergency medicine. The residency incorporates rotations that span across various critical care settings, including Medical ICU, Surgical ICU, Neuro ICU, and Pediatric ICU, accumulating a total of five months in intensive care units. Additionally, elective rotations are available in areas like Advanced Toxicology, EMS/Flight Medicine, Global Health, and Pediatric EM 2.

Research and Scholarly Activities

Residents are required to engage in at least one Scholarly Activity Project during their training. The program encourages participation in ongoing faculty-led research initiatives in diverse fields such as trauma, cardiovascular studies, and infectious diseases. Resources to support research endeavors include access to medical libraries, statistical support, and dedicated research stipends 1.

Faculty

The faculty at Grand Strand is comprised of experienced professionals dedicated to educating and mentoring students. The leadership team includes specialists in Emergency Ultrasound, EMS, and Toxicology, among others, ensuring comprehensive onboarding for residents 3.

Salary and Benefits

Residents receive competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, professional development funds, and paid time off, among other perks. Additional benefits include support for licensing expenses and training programs such as BLS/ACLS 1. The program also facilitates a supportive environment for cultural inclusivity, emphasizing community outreach and educational opportunities in emergency medical services.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is recognized as being friendly to DO graduates and IMGs, often encouraging a diverse pool of applicants. Support is available for visa types including H-1B and J-1 visas to assist eligible international medical graduates in obtaining residency positions.

Application Requirements

While there are no strict minimum score requirements for USMLE/COMLEX, applicants must have passed USMLE/COMLEX Step 1 and report their Step 2 status before interviews. Letters of recommendation should ideally include one from a physician in Emergency Medicine. The program accepts applications through the ERAS system commencing mid-September, and emphasizes involvement in the supplemental ERAS application for enhanced applicant visibility 1.